The Ten Best Stores on Broadway

The Broadway/Baker neighborhood has become trendy, but it hasn't lost its eclectic charm. The storefronts lining what used to be known as Denver's "Miracle Mile" are full of miraculous finds, whether it's a toy from the past, magic tricks, boutique clothing, craft supplies or a display of "perverted" coloring books. There's something for everyone on Broadway, and plenty of spots to grab a cup of coffee or a beer to sustain you on a long day of shopping. Here are the ten best stores on Broadway, in no particular order, and culminating with our Best of Denver 2016 winner.

Let your inner star shine at Starlet. Whether you’re looking for on-trend clothing or retro jewelry and accessories, Starlet won’t break the bank while helping you look marvelous. And after you’ve filled a shopping bag with an outfit or two worthy of a true “starlet,” head next door to Historian’s Ale House for the 2016 Best All-Day Happy Hour.

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Calling all wizards, geeks and cosplay fanatics. Now ensconced in a stunning new home on Broadway, the Wizard’s Chest is more magical than ever. The family-owned store stocks everything from costumes to puzzles, with plenty of tricks in between. Be sure to check the packed schedule of events for Dungeons and Dragons or Pokémon tournaments.

Buffalo Exchange is a hipster haven. Whether you’re in search of a vintage T-shirt to complete your already-overflowing collection or attending an Otter J calendar-release party in the back of the store, this spot is a must-stop on Broadway, close by Mutiny Information Cafe and TRVE Brewing Company, where you can grab refreshments when you're done shopping.

Crafters looking for something more modern and community-oriented than the average Michael’s need look no further than Fancy Tiger Crafts. What was once a small DIY boutique has grown into an impressive storefront on Broadway, where owners Jaime Jennings and Amber Corcoran sell crafting essentials and also offer classes and events where people can reach their “crafting potential.” Stop by on Tuesday from 6 to 9 p.m. for open craft night.

Take a trip down memory lane at Fifty Two ‘80s. Whether you’re on the hunt for old-school Cabbage Patch dolls or the Stretch Armstrong you had as a kid, Fifty Two ‘80s is the best place to go. And if you’ve been dying to find a retro Broncos sweater ever since we won the Super Bowl, there’s no better place to jump on the bandwagon.

Lauren is a contributor for Westword's arts and music sections, most often writing about beards and other hairy situations. She splits her time between handling the communications for a local nonprofit and writing for anywhere that will let her fangirl over early 2000s pop punk.